Motorsport
“Brackley has been the home of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team ever since the three-pointed star returned to Formula 1 with its own works team in 2010. Our performance comes from our people, and West Northamptonshire attracts some of the most highly-skilled engineers and technicians in the world – many of whom are employed in our team. We are proud to be based in such an innovative and cutting-edge environment.”
Rob Thomas, Chief Operating Officer
Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team
West Northants has a rich history intertwined with the automotive and motorsport industries which has carried on into present day where it holds a reputation as being the home of innovative technology.
The motorsport and automotive sector in West Northants is a significant economic powerhouse. The region is part of the larger “®Motorsport Valley,” which extends into Oxfordshire and beyond. This super cluster is valued at approximately £6 billion and includes a wide range of automotive, motorsport, and advanced manufacturing companies like Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, Aston Martin, and Cosworth. These global innovators drive advancements in powertrains, chassis, and advanced engineering, creating opportunities for future growth in high-value manufacturing and technology.
MotorSport Valley: ®Motorsport Valley is a registered trademark of the Motorsport Industry Association and so, owned by the industry
Silverstone Circuit, located in West Northants, is one of the most iconic motorsport venues in the world. It hosted the first Formula 1 World Championship race in 1950 and continues to be a central hub for motorsport events, including the British Grand Prix. It attracts skilled professionals, high-tech businesses, and international visitors, offering opportunities to benefit the local economy and the wider visitor economy.
The presence of Silverstone Circuit has fostered a thriving motorsport engineering sector. Silverstone itself is home to 80 high technology and advanced manufacturing companies, testing facilities for materials and vehicles and the iconic F1 Circuit.
The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, based in Brackley here in West Northants, is a cornerstone of the region’s advanced engineering and motorsport sectors. The site spans 60,000 square meters and includes world-class facilities for the design, development, manufacturing, assembly, and operation of championship-winning Formula One cars.
West Northants has the ideal infrastructure in place to support innovation and business growth in the motorsport sector. Contact a member of the team today to discuss your business requirements.
Investment sectors
West Northants' economic growth and successes are driven by its diverse range of industries. Discover more about our key specialisms below.